Introduction
There’s something truly comforting about a warm, hearty casserole that brings the whole family together. This Hobo Casserole is a delightful blend of savory ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce, topped with a golden layer of melted cheddar cheese. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy dinner, an effortless one-pan meal that will leave everyone feeling satisfied and happy. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up those vegetables in your fridge!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup green beans, fresh or frozen
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for achieving that lovely, bubbling texture.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef together with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is thoroughly browned and the onions glisten with transparency. Be sure to drain any excess fat for a cleaner dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with diced potatoes, sliced carrots, green beans, diced tomatoes (along with their juice), cream of mushroom soup, Worcestershire sauce, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir well until everything is beautifully mixed together.
- Transfer this flavorful mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly so every bite is packed with goodness.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to soften.
- After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. The cheese will create that irresistible, gooey topping!
- Return the dish to the oven and continue baking uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly, forming a delicious golden crust.
- Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps to set the layers, making it easier to serve.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this casserole with your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Broccoli, peas, or corn can add a delightful touch. If you’re looking for a bit of heat, throw in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Also, this casserole reheats beautifully, making it a great option for leftovers!
Cooking Techniques
This dish utilizes the sautéing technique for the ground beef and vegetables to develop rich flavors, followed by the baking technique to meld everything together while achieving that comforting, creamy texture. The aluminum foil allows for steam retention during the initial baking, ensuring the vegetables are tender before adding the cheese topping.
FAQ
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the entire casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just be sure to let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in aluminum foil or transfer to an airtight container. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This Hobo Casserole is a delicious way to enjoy a hearty meal with minimal fuss. It combines the savory goodness of ground beef and vegetables in a creamy sauce topped with melty cheese, creating a dish that feels like home. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, it’s bound to be a family favorite. So gather your loved ones and dig into this comforting classic—it’s sure to warm your hearts and bellies!